Pill-free-pain-relief

Chronic pain sufferers may eventually be able to put away the ibuprofen. Just like the song, a new University of Florida study suggests some “good vibrations” take away the pain. UF researchers produced pain by applying heat to the arms of study participants. They followed that pain with stimulating vibrations to block the heat related pain sensations. Researchers say the vibrations reduced the pain sensations in people by 44%. Experts consider this potential new treatment for pain similar to traditional touch therapies already in use.
Dr. Roland Staud/UF pain researcher: “Some forms of massage are very strongly touch related and not painful and they may provide analgesic relief to individuals in pain.”
The study marks the first time a non-painful stimulus was shown to actually provide a pain relieving effect for fibromyalgia patients. Researchers say those who suffer from conditions like fibromyalgia could some day benefit from this kind of treatment, and it could provide an alternative for those who seek treatment from chronic pain.
Dr. Roland Staud/UF pain researcher: “It is not associated with great cost and great risk to the individual as well as the person who provides these treatments.”
Experts say more than 75 million people suffer from chronic pain the United States.
http://news.ufl.edu/2011/03/23/pill-free-pain-relief/

Treating Fibromyalgia in Teens and Children

A team of specialists works together to treat fibromyalgia in children and teens. This team can include a:

• Pediatric rheumatologist (a doctor who specializes in treating children with arthritis and other rheumatologic diseases)
• Psychologist
• Physical therapist

Though there currently is no cure for fibromyalgia in children (or adults), several good treatments are available to help manage its symptoms, including:
Coping strategies.One of the most effective ways to treat fibromyalgia in teens and children is by using coping strategies to manage the pain. A technique called cognitive behavioral therapy helps children with fibromyalgia learn what triggers their pain and how to deal with it. It's very helpful for improving kids' ability to function, and relieving their depression. Other behavior-based approaches to treating fibromyalgia include muscle relaxation and stress-relieving techniques (such as deep breathing or meditation).
Medication. Medications may be used to treat adults with fibromyalgia. Rheumatologists may try some of these same medicines in children. However, the safety and effectiveness of fibromyalgia drugs isn't as well studied in children as in adults.
Exercise. Exercise is an important part of fibromyalgia treatment. Children with fibromyalgia who stay active tend to have less intense pain and less depression. A physical therapist can show kids the best exercises for fibromyalgia and can teach them how to ease into an exercise program gradually so they don't get injured.
Physical therapy. Physical therapy and massage can ease some of the muscle soreness that children with fibromyalgia experience.
For teens and children who are struggling with fibromyalgia, these treatments can bring help and hope. Getting enough rest and exercise and relieving stress can help control fibromyalgia so that kids with the condition can stay symptom-free over the long term.
http://www.webmd.com/fibromyalgia/guide/fibromyalgia-in-children-and-teens?page=2